I urge the Vermont Legislature to pass the bill that would require labeling of genetically engineered foods. GE crops are hazardous in two ways.

First, they’re sprayed with more herbicides and pesticides than “conventional” crops. That means higher levels of toxins in humans, soils, water and wildlife.

Second, GE foods cause multiple illnesses. Here are some quotes from the website for the must-see film “Genetic Roulette,” which is offered free online. “(P)hysicians and scientists have uncovered a grave trend. The same serious health problems found in lab animals, livestock and pets that have been fed GM foods are now on the rise in the U.S. population. When people and animals stop eating genetically modified organisms (GMOs), their health improved. Research has found a significant connection between GM food and the rise of birth defects, autism, allergies and intestinal damage in humans, massive tumors and infertility in rats. Yet the Food and Drug Administration claimed they were unaware that genetically modified food was substantially different from conventionally grown food — thereby GM food did not need testing and was safe to eat.

“The truth is that scientists repeatedly warned the FDA about the health and environmental dangers of GMOs. Due to political and financial interests, these red flags were ignored by the U.S. government.”

I have never knowingly purchased GE foods and never would. But without labeling, it’s hard to avoid them.

It’s time for us to assert our absolute right to freedom of choice in what we eat.